Looking for something more than just a drop-in event this summer for your baby or toddler?
You’re not alone. Most programs this time of year are geared toward school-aged kids, but that doesn’t mean the littlest ones have to miss out. Whether you’ve got a wobbly new walker, a busy preschooler, or something in between, there are local options made just for ages 0 to 5.
And if you’re just now thinking, “I should probably sign us up for something,” I get it. I didn’t start planning our summer until halfway through June either. The good news? It’s not too late.
This list includes music classes, art classes, dance classes, preschool gymnastics, and one VBS program that is still coming up. Some run just for summer, others go year-round, but they all take a little planning ahead.
If you’re looking for flexible, pop-in-when-you-can activities, you’ll still find those in the weekly and daily event posts. But if you’re ready to sign up for something with a little more structure, this is a great place to start.
🎵 Music
Music Together® Mini Session – Columbia
When: Mondays, July 7–August 1 · 9:00, 10:00, or 11:00 AM
Where: Columbia Dance Academy, Columbia, TN
Cost: $80 for one child, $120 for two or more children. Infants 8 months and younger may attend free with a registered sibling. Siblings age 6 and older may also attend free with a registered sibling. Tuition includes a $25 non-refundable registration fee per family.
Details: A joyful parent/child music and movement class for ages 0–5. Each 45-minute session includes singing, dancing, instrument play, and musical exploration. Families receive an illustrated songbook, a CD, and digital access to all class music through the free Music Together app. Additional materials are included to support your child’s development and encourage music-making at home.
Registration Required: threestrandsfamily.org/sessions
Music Together® Mini Session – Spring Hill
When: Fridays, July 7–August 1 · 9:00, 10:00, or 11:00 AM
Where: Elevate Dance Studio, 3525 Kedron Rd Ste #7, Spring Hill, TN 37174
Cost: $80 for one child, $120 for two or more children. Infants 8 months and younger may attend free with a registered sibling. Siblings age 6 and older may also attend free with a registered sibling. Tuition includes a $25 non-refundable registration fee per family.
Details: A 4-week Music Together® session designed for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Each 45-minute class features singing, movement, rhythm play, and musical fun. Families take home a beautifully illustrated songbook and CD, receive a personal code for digital music access, and get extra resources to encourage music play and learning at home.
Registration required: firstnotesmusic.com/register
Mini Musicians – Muletown School of Music
When: Weekly on Tuesdays · 10:00–10:30 AM (ongoing, year-round)
Where: Muletown School of Music, 1409 Hatcher Lane, Columbia, TN
Cost: $82/month
Details: A fun and engaging group music class for ages 3–4 and a caregiver. Kids explore rhythm, melody, and movement through songs, games, and hands-on musical activities. They’ll learn basic rhythms, the music alphabet, instrument families, and more — all without any at-home practice required.
Registration required (Space is limited): https://www.muletownmusic.com/sign-up-form
Oceans Music Class – Music with Mary
When: June 24 · 10:00 AM
Where: Harvey Park, 4001 Miles Johnson Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: $12/child
Details: A 35-minute outdoor music class designed for children ages 9 months through 5 years. In this ocean-themed session, children will dance with bubbles, explore ocean creature toys, and try out a variety of instruments — all while learning key musical concepts like steady beat, high vs. low, and loud vs. soft. Each class encourages singing, movement, and hands-on play with real instruments to help little ones discover melody, rhythm, and joyful expression.
Registration required: https://musicwithmarytn.com/classes
Construction Music Class – Music with Mary
When: July 21 · 10:00 AM
Where: Harvey Park, 4001 Miles Johnson Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: $12/child
Details: This 35-minute music class invites children ages 9 months through 5 years to explore sound and movement through a playful construction theme. Kids will use rhythm sticks, a low bass bar, and toy trucks to engage their senses while learning musical elements like tempo, pitch, and voice. Each class features singing, dancing, and hands-on instrument time in a fun and interactive setting designed to spark creativity and early music appreciation.
Registration required: https://musicwithmarytn.com/classes
🎨 Art
Art Play – The Art Yard
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 9:30 – 11:30 AM through August 1, 2025
Where: 5337 Main Street Spring Hill, TN 37174
Cost: Typically $12.50 per 2-hour session, or included in a multi-visit plan. Cost may vary; see website for current pricing.
Details: A themed, open-ended art and sensory play experience designed for ages 0–4. This is a child-led, parent-facilitated time with no structured instruction. Kids are free to explore at their own pace. Each 2-hour session includes hands-on sensory stations, a maker space filled with upcycled materials, one optional craft or activity, and access to the always-popular paint room. Outdoor art stations are also available when the weather allows. Older children are welcome too, especially in the maker space and art rooms.
Note: This program runs year-round, but summer sessions wrap August 1. Walk-ins are welcome if space allows. Advance registration is recommended to secure your spot.
Registration Preferred: www.tnartyard.com
🩰 Dance
Summer Swifties Dance Camp – Columbia Dance Academy
When: June 24–26 · 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Where: Columbia Dance Academy, Columbia, TN
Cost: $135 (non-refundable)
Details: A joyful, high-energy dance camp perfect for ages 3–10 who love all things Taylor Swift. Campers will enjoy Swiftie-themed dances, crafts, games, snacks, and lots of sparkly fun. No dance experience required.
Registration required: https://app.gostudiopro.com/online/cdaregistration/
A Trip to the Ballet Dance Camp – Columbia Dance Academy
When: July 8–10 · 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Where: Columbia Dance Academy, Columbia, TN
Cost: $135 (non-refundable)
Details: A magical ballet-themed camp designed for ages 3–10. Campers will explore the stories, music, and characters of classic ballets through themed dance classes, creative movement, and hands-on arts and crafts.
Registration required: https://app.gostudiopro.com/online/cdaregistration/
Camp SING! Dance Camp – Columbia Dance Academy
When: July 22–24 · 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Where: Columbia Dance Academy, Columbia, TN
Cost: $135 (non-refundable)
Details: Inspired by the movie Sing, this musical theatre-style camp invites kids ages 3–10 to step into Mr. Moon’s theater for dancing, crafts, games, themed activities, and snacks. No dance experience needed — just a love for fun and performance.
Registration required: https://app.gostudiopro.com/online/cdaregistration/
Creative Movement – Building Block School for the Arts
When: Wednesdays at 10:00 AM · Thursdays at 6:15 PM
Where: Building Block School for the Arts, 1309 S Main St, Columbia, TN
Cost: Contact for current class rates (all supplies included except dance shoes; registration fee may apply)
Details: A 45-minute movement-based dance class designed for ages 3–5. Children explore rhythm, movement, and expression in a creative, supportive setting. All performance and costume fees are included in tuition.
Registration required: https://www.gomotionapp.com/team/tnbbsa/page/system/classreg-shopping
Once Upon a Dance Camp – Longview Recreation Center
When: July 14–17 · 8:00–9:50 AM
Where: Longview Recreation Center, 2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: $125
Details: Step into a magical world where imagination and movement come together! Once Upon a Dance Camp offers a whimsical adventure filled with ballet, creative movement, and fairytale fun. Little dancers will twirl like princesses, hop like storybook creatures, and use their creativity to act out beloved tales. Campers are encouraged to bring a favorite stuffed animal or doll to join in the fun. In addition to dance instruction, each morning includes a craft, game, snack (from home), and a short restroom break — all in a supportive and sparkly setting perfect for ages 3–5.
Registration required: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/wcpr/activity/search/detail/36308?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true
Bluey Dance Mode – Longview Recreation Center
When: July 28–31 · 8:00–9:50 AM
Where: Longview Recreation Center, 2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: $125
Details: Get ready to groove, tumble, and cheer with the Heeler family! In Bluey Dance Mode, your little one will learn fun hip hop moves, cheer routines, and beginner tumbling skills — all while dancing alongside their favorite blue pup. This high-energy camp blends music, movement, and play as dancers explore the world of Bluey through exciting character-inspired activities. Each morning also includes a craft, game, snack (from home), and a short restroom break. Perfect for ages 3–5, this camp is full of creativity, friendship, and paw-some fun!
Registration required: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/wcpr/activity/search/detail/36536?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true
Summer Sampler – Longview Recreation Center
When: July 7–10 · 8:00–9:50 AM
Where: Longview Recreation Center, 2909 Commonwealth Dr, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: $125
Details: Let your little one explore the exciting world of dance in the Petite Summer Sampler Camp! This fun and dynamic program introduces ages 3–5 to a variety of styles, including hip hop, ballet, theatre dance, and jazz. Through creative movement and playful routines, kids build coordination, rhythm, and confidence — all while having a blast. Each camp day also includes a craft, game, snack (from home), and a short restroom break. It’s the perfect way for young dancers to discover their favorite style and make new friends along the way.
Registration required: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/wcpr/activity/search/detail/36516?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true
First Steps Dance Program – Columbia Dance Academy
When: Contact for class schedule
Where: Columbia Dance Academy, 1412 Trotwood Ave #17, Columbia, TN 38401
Cost: Contact for current rates
Details: Columbia Dance Academy’s First Steps Program offers a warm, imaginative introduction to dance for children ages 2–6. Each class blends music, movement, visuals, and props to support physical coordination, creativity, and early learning. Class options include:
- Creative Movement (Age 2): A joyful class using props, music, and storytelling to nurture a love of dance and support cognitive growth.
- Pre-Ballet & Tap (Ages 3–4): Introduces foundational ballet and tap in a playful, age-appropriate way that encourages coordination, musical awareness, and social development.
- Intro to Ballet & Tap (Ages 5–6): Builds on the basics with more structured ballet and tap instruction, focusing on flexibility, rhythm, and physical confidence.
- Little Bit Hip (Ages 5–6): A beginner-friendly hip hop class that introduces jazz-funk and hip hop technique through upbeat choreography and energetic movement.
Registration required: https://columbiadanceacademy.com
Preschool Dance Program – Elevate Dance Studio
When: Weekly classes · Full class schedule: View here
Where: Elevate Dance Studio, 3525 Kedron Rd, Suite 7, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: Contact for class tuition · $25 annual non-refundable registration fee
Details: Elevate Dance Studio offers a range of joyful, age-appropriate dance classes for children 18 months to 6 years old. These programs focus on foundational movement, musicality, and confidence in a supportive environment. Class options include:
- Dance with Me (Ages 18 months–2): A 30-minute parent-and-child class exploring movement, rhythm, and song through guided play.
- Creative Movement (Ages 3–5): A 45-minute class that introduces basic ballet and tumbling through imaginative play and structured instruction.
- Mini Combo Ballet/Tap (Ages 4–6): Combines beginner ballet and tap skills with a focus on coordination and rhythm.
- Mini Combo Ballet/Jazz (Ages 4–6): Introduces ballet, jazz, and tumbling in a fun and engaging 45-minute class.
All classes include age-specific dress code recommendations and are led by experienced instructors trained in early childhood movement.
Registration required: https://app.gostudiopro.com/online/index.php?account_id=24193
🤸 Gymnastics
PA Jungle Gym – Premier Athletics Columbia
When: Weekly year-round classes
Where: 2505 Pulaski Hwy, Columbia, TN
Cost: Contact for current class rates
Details: This preschool gymnastics program includes multiple class options for ages 2.5–5, all designed to build strength, coordination, and confidence. Kids develop motor skills through structured play and technique stations on the floor, bars, and beam — all in a fun, encouraging environment. The program also helps support focus, listening, and following directions in a way that’s playful and positive.
Registration required: www.premierathleticscolumbia.com/preschool-gymnastics-tumbling
Preschool Gymnastics – Discovery Gymnastics
When: Weekly year-round classes
Where: 1943 Union Place, Columbia, TN
Cost: Contact for current class rates
Details: Discovery Gymnastics offers a variety of movement-based classes for young children, starting with their Parent & Child class for ages 18 months and up. This 45-minute class is designed for babies learning to sit and crawl, with playful activities that support balance, core strength, and sensory exploration — all in a colorful, engaging space. Held Wednesdays from 9:00–9:45 AM, this class is a great way to connect with your child while helping them grow through movement.
Note: Open gym is currently paused and will resume after summer camps. They also offer preschool gymnastics classes and summer camps for children ages 4 and up. Class options vary by age and season.
Registration required: https://www.discoverygym.com/portal/booking
Summer Camps (Ages 3+) – Shining Light Gymnastics
When: Now through August 8 · 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (extended care available)
Where: 4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: Contact for current prices
Details: Themed day camps for children ages 3 and up who are independently potty trained. Weekly themes include Gamer Camp, Neon Camp, Escape Room Camp, Hogwarts Camp, SLG’s Got Talent, and Slime Camp.
Registration required: www.shininglightgymnastics.com
Preschool Programs – Shining Light Gymnastics
When: Weekly year-round classes
Where: 4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: Contact for current rates
Details:
Shining Light offers a variety of movement-based classes for ages 1–5. Programs include:
- Parent & Child (12–36 months): A shared learning experience where toddlers and caregivers build coordination, balance, and strength through guided play and basic gymnastics in a colorful, welcoming space.
- Pre Recreational Gymnastics (ages 3–5): A preschool gymnastics class that introduces tumbling, bars, vault, beam, and foam pit fun — all scaled for smaller bodies and big energy.
- Tiny Ninja (ages 4–5): A high-energy, obstacle-course–style class that encourages agility, strength, and confidence through ninja-inspired movement.
Families can also check with the gym for additional offerings like themed camps and open play options.
Registration required: www.shininglightgymnastics.com
🎭 Creative Arts Enrichment
Enrichment Program – Stage Right School of Performing Arts
When: Contact for current schedule
Where: Stage Right School of Performing Arts, 2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C3, Spring Hill, TN
Cost: Contact for current rates
Details: A creative and engaging enrichment program designed for children ages 3–5. Each class blends movement, music, and hands-on learning through a rotating schedule of activities including:
- Stretch & Grow: Yoga-inspired stretching and cooperative kinesthetic games
- Dance: Age-appropriate ballet and creative movement using the Once Upon a Ballet curriculum
- Wiggle Warm-up: Morning music and movement to get little bodies ready to learn
- Arts & Crafts: Themed, hands-on projects that support fine motor skills and creativity
- Music Makers: Singing, dancing, and instrument play focused on musical basics like rhythm and melody
Children also build confidence and social-emotional skills while making new friends in a warm, supportive setting led by experienced early childhood educators.
Registration required: https://app.thestudiodirector.com/stageright/portal.sd?page=Enroll&meth=search&SEASON=Enrichment+Camp+-+July+2025
✝️ Vacation Bible School (VBS)
Many local churches host Vacation Bible School (VBS) during the summer, typically in June or July. Since most are promoted directly through congregations and often focus on school-aged kids, this guide doesn’t include a list of every VBS in the area.
That said, we are including one program in July that still has openings for younger children and welcomes families from the community.
If your family is connected to a church, it’s always worth checking with them — many offer VBS programs that include preschoolers or even toddlers, especially if they’re potty-trained. And if you’re new to the area or not currently part of a church, some programs are happy to welcome visitors with open arms.
Epic Australian Adventure VBS – Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church
When: July 14–17 · 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Where: 2494 Nashville Hwy, Columbia, TN
Cost: Free
Details: For ages 3–12. Includes themed Bible stories, crafts, music, and games in an Australian setting.
Registration required: https://coslutheran.com/youth-summer-camps/vbs-2025
Just the Right Fit for Little Ones (and Tired Parents Too)
Whether you’re hoping to add a little rhythm to your week, fill a few mornings with something fun, or just try something new with your toddler, I hope this guide makes summer feel a little more doable.
Most of these programs still have space, but not for long. If one caught your eye, go ahead and check it out soon.
And remember, you don’t have to plan it all at once. Whether you register for a session, try a drop-in class, or save this for later, you’re doing a great job keeping your little one engaged this summer. I’ll keep sharing flexible, pop-in activities in the weekly and daily posts so when you’re ready for something spontaneous, those will still be waiting for you too.
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